Frameless video system

ABSTRACT

A frameless audio/video object (FAVO) that provides information to a user. In one embodiment, the FAVO is interactive, such as having hotspots for allowing a user to select more features or information. The information may be advertising. The user can select a desirable FAVO, such as a favorite celebrity.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Provisional Application No.61/245,831, filed Sep. 25, 2009, entitled “Frameless Video System,” thedisclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to frameless videos for deliveringinformation to an end user.

New forms of online videos have recently emerged on the web: framelessvideos in which characters appear free from a rectangular border whetherinside a web page or on top of the web page, the latter form being knownas overlay.

To date, frameless videos have been predominantly limited to a web pagewithin a web browser application, and although these videos appearborderless, they are still part of a bigger frame—the web page windowthat is contained by the web browser application window. Existingframeless videos within a web page are often ads, such as a car thatmoves across the page or a pop-up. These can be frustrating to acomputer user, since they obscure the page the user is trying to read.Another common form of web page based frameless videos are web pagehost(s) that attempt to guide and enhance an end users experience withina given web page. Frameless video outside of a webpage and web browserapplications also exist. For example, virtuagirl.com providesdownloadable video files of models for display on the operating systemdesktop, outside of a browser or other application.

An example of an interactive advertising system where a user can selectthe types of ads is set forth in US Published Application No.20090063283, “System and Method for Consumer-Selected Advertising andBranding in Interactive Media.” US Published Application No. 20090144105shows advertising associated with an avatar in a virtual world. USPublished Application No. 20080120558 describes an avatar that canmigrate from one virtual environment to another.

Stanford professors Byron Reeves and Clifford Nass, in their compellingstudy, “The Media Equation How People Treat Computers, Television, andNew Media like Real People and Places”, have highlighted that peopleautomatically and subconsciously anthropomorphize their computerexperience. Modern computers attempt to express complex actions andproduce objects that are from the real world. The human brain wants totreat the computer as if it were a type of life form.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a frameless object that providesinformation to a user. In one embodiment, the object is interactive,whereby the object provides additional information to the user inresponse to user action. The additional information may be commercialinformation, such as advertising, or may be non-commercial, such asmedical information.

In one embodiment, the frameless object is a frameless video object or aframeless audio/video object (FAVO), The system collects and transmitsinformation about the user's interaction with the FAVO.

In one embodiment, the FAVO can move outside of the display windowborder of a webpage, web browser application or any other softwareapplication running on a given device. The FAVO may be synchronized witha corresponding FAVO on other devices, such as a mobile phone, so thatthe FAVO appears to move from device to device with the user. MultipleFAVOs may be provided, with interaction between FAVOs. The user canselect a desirable FAVO, such as a favorite celebrity.

In one embodiment, the FAVO provides advertising by displaying a productor logo, providing a new type of product placement. Alternately, theFAVO can link to advertising. User interaction with a FAVO can betracked, Client software tracks user viewing time and interaction withthe FAVO, and uploads the information to a system server.

In one embodiment, one or more methods are used to encourage a user todownload and use a FAVO. The FAVO can be a favorite celebrity, or anattractive model. The FAVO can provide desired information about thecelebrity using the video—with or without audio—of the celebrityherself. Alternatively, the celebrity can provide information aboutother products or services. In another embodiment, the browser candetect downloaded FAVO(s), and disable ads presented on web pages thatotherwise would be provided to the user. This allows the user to notonly see just ads of interest, but to reduce the number of unwanted ads.The ads or products displayed with the FAVO could be linked to searchesdone by the user, thus aiding the searcher in a product or servicesearch.

Referring to FIG. 2A, in one embodiment, the system comprises (i) aremote Data Storage, Delivery and Monitoring System (the DSDMS)(2A#100); and (ii) a Client Module (2A#101) that enables the display ofa Frameless Video or stream of Frameless Videos on the operating systemdisplay and/or on the display of an application being run by theoperating system. The Client Module also comprises software thatmonitors the device user's interaction with Frameless Video(s) andtransmits data representing this interaction back to the remote DSDMS,where the DSDMS stores and organizes this information making itavailable for report generation according to the desires of interestedparties. Depending on the data received regarding a particular user'sinteraction with the Frameless Video(s), the DSDMS comprises softwarethat can further customize new information that is transmitted back tothat user's Client Module, further enhancing the user's interaction withthe Frameless Video(s). This reiterative interaction between the ClientModule and the DSDMS provides an ongoing unique Frameless Videoexperience for each device user.

FAVOs are high-definition frameless videos that display objects orpeople as they appear and sound in the real world; as a result theycontribute to humanizing the computing experience. In addition, theFAVOs have the ability to be played outside of the webpage, web browser,and/or application window and are capable of floating on the top layerof the operating system and other application windows allowing them toco-exist as companions to the end-users along with other computerapplications. Moreover, the FAVOs are capable of accompanying theend-users for hours, days, or longer, including off-line, hencedisplaying multiple impressions to the end-users.

The frameless, floating and extended-stay video technology is a newconsumer information medium that is more effective and interactive thantraditional online videos. In the advertisement market, this presentinvention expands the capabilities of direct marketing, with the flow ofinformation now being two-way—direct from the advertiser to the consumerand then feedback directly back from the consumer to the advertiser.

Though the FAVO are still confined to the computer screen, they are notbordered by the rectangular “window” that surrounds most forms ofsoftware. This provides the illusion that the FAVO resides within thecomputer itself. The device user has the option of having the FAVOdisplay on top of any software application and the device user cancompletely control the opacity of the image to make the FAVO lessintrusive. This fosters a long-term engagement between the device userand the advertiser's successive marketing campaigns.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an example of a FAVO: golfer on right end corner. The blurredeffect represents the manner in which this FAVO moves on the device'sscreen.

FIGS. 2A, 2B is an example of a basic architecture and components of thesystem.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of the hierarchy of objects in Microsoft Agent, usedin one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is an example of software location and interaction.

FIG. 5 is an example of multiple impression solution.

FIG. 6 is an example of a flow chart of the production process.

FIG. 7 is a fictional example of a FAVO of Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montanamoving from within the border of the browser display onto the device'soperating system display.

FIG. 8 is a fictional example featuring Tiger Woods sponsored by Nike.

FIG. 9 is a fictional example of large format FAVO promoting theVictoria's Secret swimwear line.

FIG. 10 is a fictional example of a two flower FAVO.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to high definition frameless videosthat are played independent from the display frames of other softwareapplications. FIG. 1 is an example of a FAVO: golfer on right endcorner.

The content of the software takes the shape of a windowless andorganically-shaped object—generally built from HD filming and 3Ddevelopment suites—that floats on the operating system desktop display,and optionally on top of the display of other software applications. InFIG. 1, the celebrity in the bottom right corner is a dynamic moving andtalking character that simulates real-world life and humanizes thecomputing experience. With the ability to float on top of otherapplications, the FAVO can accompany consumers throughout their dailycomputing activities. These objects can take any shape and run for anyduration that a sponsor desires. Generally the FAVO appears as a movingpicture/video, but the FAVO may be a static frameless image, series ofstatic frameless images. In this static form the FAVO, end userinteraction—such as a mouse click—may cause the FAVO to transform intovideo mode; thereby bringing the static image “to life”.

The visually appealing and interactive nature of the FAVO encouragesinitial and continued acceptance of the FAVO by the consumers. FAVOs arevisually appealing because: (i) they are images of real people theyadmire or trust or are images of products that they desire; (ii) theyare connected to applications that provide information and utility thatrelates to admired or trusted people or products; (iii) they arecompletely free; (iv) new and customized content can be delivered to theFAVO to further stimulate the user; and (v) the content delivery isnon-intrusive.

The FAVO take advantage of opportunities offered by the recentdevelopment of larger and more capable computer screens. As screens havebecome wider, they leave empty space on the sides of the screen becauseweb pages and most other applications do not fill the entire width ofthe screen. Microsoft Vista Sidebar is an example of initiatives takingadvantage of these empty spaces. In addition, the increase in the numberof pixels enables smaller images to look clearer. As a result, the FAVOcan reside on end-users' screens while being non-intrusive andrealistic. This ongoing trend towards clearer screen images will alsoallow the FAVO to be visually potent on the small screens ofultra-portable laptops, netbooks, tablets and handsets.

In one embodiment, the user can be redirected to a FAVO website byinteracting with advertisements. The website will include optionalregistration and profile information, and a catalog of FAVOs or FAVOcategories for download. Once the user selects a FAVO for download, theClient Module is downloaded or instantiated when the user indicates adesire for a FAVO.

The basic architecture of the system is as set forth in FIGS. 2A-2B.

FAVO FIG. 2B #202

Is a frameless video—audio capable—software object. The FAVO can useMicrosoft Agent technology, Microsoft Silverlight, Adobe Air or othertechnologies. In one embodiment, the FAVO is a windowless form, usingCOM interop to call Microsoft Agent. In alternate embodiments, differentFAVO architectures are provided for different operating systems. Toclarify, the frameless video has the ability to float as a separatevisual layer on top of the operating system and/or an applicationdisplay window and the end user can control this ‘ability’ to set whichapplications the frameless video will float-on-top of (commonly referredto as setting the Z-order of a software application).

FAVO Client Module FIG. 2B #204

This Client Module is used to communicate with the Data Storage,Delivery & Monitoring System (DSDMS). It uses secure web service callsto upload statistics (such as click-throughs, impressions or time spentviewing FAVOS) to the DSDMS. In one embodiment the Client Moduleaccesses the DSDMS for new versions of the Client Module, as well as fornew FAVO'S. It is responsible for requesting new content from theContent Distribution Network. These requests may be end user initiatedand/or may be performed at specified periods without end user input;whereas the Client Module automatically polls the DSDMS for new content.The said requested new content may be grouped in packages, such as anupdate to the Client Module combined with several unique FAVO's and/or aset of unique FAVO's. In this case the Client Module will be able totrack & upload statistics to the DSDMS—that go beyond whether thepackage was simply downloaded—rather detailed data regarding precise enduser interaction with each of the items grouped within the package ofsaid items will be tracked and uploaded to the DSDMS. In anotherembodiment, each item—be it software update or single FAVO—mayberequested and streamed to the Client Module one item at time, whereasthe above mentioned tracking and uploading of statistics will apply. TheClient Module manages FAVO playback including successive playback ofunique FAVO's one after another, and also provides a toolbar tray iconfor setting basic options. The Client model may be implemented byvarious programming strategies: a.) accessing the applicationprogramming interfaces that work with a web browser application orembedded as a plug-in to a web browser application, b.) accessedremotely via the internet as software service, c.) embedded within theFAVO software object model as a system of related properties, functions,methods, or other software services, d.) and/or downloaded from theremote DSDMS as a software application that runs on the device'soperating system. The said programming strategies may be combined todeliver the optimal implementation of the Client Module.

DSDMS 2B #200

The DSDMS is a set of secured web services and data management systemsthat are used to store and download information about available FAVOS,Client Module upgrades, sponsor information, end user information, andend user interactions with FAVO's running on their device. It is theDSDMS that houses the information that is needed to generate reports forAvazap, FAVO sponsors and other interested parties. In one embodimentthe DSDMS is a relational database management system.

Sponsor Portal & Report Engine 2B #201

The Sponsor Portal is the part of the system that FAVO Sponsors will useto create and monitor ad campaigns, see statistics (such as clickthroughs and impressions). In one embodiment it is a standard ASP.Net2.0 Web Application using Telerik RadControls and AJAX to provide aneasy to use and responsive User Interface.

FAVO Content Creation 2B #205

Content creation is where the FAVO'S are produced. One created, they areuploaded to the DSDMS and made available for distribution on the ContentDelivery System (CDS).

AVAZAP Portal & Report Engine 2B #201

The AVAZAP Portal is the portion of the system used by AVAZAP itself tomonitor the system, create and delete FAVO metadata, etc. In oneembodiment it is a standard ASP.Net 2.0 Web Application using TelerikRadControls and AJAX to provide an easy to use and responsive UserInterface.

Content Delivery System 2B #206

Akamai (or a similar partner) can be used to stage FAVO'S and in oneembodiment to download new versions of the Client Module.

In one embodiment the Client Module software is installed on the usercomputer. It takes up a small footprint for processing and memorythrough a number of features, which also provide desired speed. In oneembodiment, custom software is used. In another embodiment, the softwaretakes advantage of existing Microsoft agent technology found on mostcomputers. The software interacts with MS Agent software primarily forvisual display purposes. The following software object interacts withthe Agent Server core component of the Windows operating system via theMS Agent API. This module can control any MS Agent objects created.These objects have the file extension .ACS or .ACF. The following subsetof the Microsoft Agent Object Model objects are used:

-   -   Request FIG. 3 #300—used to sync the FAVOs with each other and        software application events    -   Agent (control) FIG. 3 #301—this contains the other objects    -   Characters (collection) FIG. 3 #302—contains the Character        object so is used by default    -   Character FIG. 3 #303—this contains the properties, methods, and        events that give programmatic control to the MS Agent based        FAVO. Such as: size(Width, Height), name(String), show( ) play(        ) on MouseClick, on Show.    -   AnimationNames FIG. 3 #304—this contains the list of the names        various unique FAVO'S contained within a given character. This        provides the ability to access and control multiple FAVO's        embedded within a single object. This useful capability may or        may not be included in implementations of FAVO's that do not        utilize the MS Agent software services

These objects are organized in the following hierarchy shown in FIG. 3.Objects in FIG. 3 (The dotted line following an object indicates thatmultiple objects can exist.)

Instead of an end user going to a web site—such as YouTube.com—anddownloading video files, in one implementation an ID number of the FAVOor FAVO category that has already been downloaded is stored by theClient Module. The DSDMS uses these ID numbers to determine what contentto stream to the Client Module. This cross referencing of ID numbersinsures that the Client Module only requests FAVO's that have not beendownloaded while providing the DSDMS the data to control the FAVOinventory residing on any given end users system. The Client Module hasthe ability to display a FAVO on the end users device display based uponactivation events. The user can either select an activation schedule ortriggers, or manually activate a FAVO. A possible default would activatethe FAVO whenever the web browser application is active. In oneembodiment a FAVO is launched based on an end user search query, thecontent of said FAVO would relate to the string in the search query,said FAVO would appear on top of the display frame of application thatcontains search query box. In one embodiment the Client Module tracksend user search query input using that information to launch asearch-relevant FAVO. This is accomplished by end user keystroke mappingof edit boxes designed for search query input, and then, comparing thatinput to a look-up table containing FAVO's with descriptive tagginginformation. If the said descriptive information matches the searchquery input then the FAVO's are displayed. In one embodiment this codeis embedded into a search enabled website—such as www.Google.com. Inanother embodiment key mapping is initiated by the Client Module if agiven website (or search enabled application such as a toolbar that hasa search query input field) appears in a look up table of search enabledwebsites or search enabled applications.

A FAVO supports alpha channels. An alpha channel is a portion of eachpixel's data that is reserved for transparency information. 32-bitgraphics systems contain four channels—three 8-bit channels for red,green, and blue (RGB) and one 8-bit alpha channel. The alpha channel isreally a mask—it specifies how the pixel's colors should be merged withanother pixel when the two are overlaid, one on top of the other.

An alpha channel can be defined on a pixel-by-pixel basis or per object.Different parts of the object would have different levels oftransparency depending on how much background is desired to showthrough. For example, the green screen portions of an image can leteverything else on the display show through, creating the appearance ofonly the FAVO being over the rest of the display.

Various embodiments of the invention may use different formats, such as.PNG, .MNG or GIF In the case of .GIF, alpha channels are not supported.

Multiple FAVO modes are possible, and can be user definable. The FAVOcan simply show products or logos on the FAVO, with the products beingclothes with logos, or an article held by the FAVO (e.g., golf club).Alternately, backgrounds or other FAVOs can display other products orservices.

The Client Module monitors the time a FAVO is active, and which productsor logos are displayed, including the time period for each. Any userinteraction, such as clicking on a FAVO, is recorded, including whatpart of the FAVO where that produces a different result. An example of asoftware module for monitoring user interactions is Google's Gmail,which reads the text of email which was entered via a keystroke EUI (EndUser Interaction) and then offers relevant ads based on the context ofyour emails. This EUI data is provided in batches to the DSDMS to avoidoverloading the DSDMS. Alternately, real time or increased frequencybatch uploading can be used. The information can be directed toadvertising customers, or used by the DSDMS, to refine FAVO presented.For example, if a user clicks on a model's shoes, other shoes can bedisplayed since the user has shown a real time interest in shoes.

Additionally, in one embodiment the software monitors other useractivity while the FAVO is active, such as browsing, calendar viewing,etc. A FAVO is activated based upon what web page an end user visits,particular FAVO are mapped to a web page or website address and arelaunched by the Client Module whenever an end user visits said webaddress. An embodiment uniquely goes beyond the confines of a single webpage—prior FAVO solutions exists only within the display frame of asingle web page—and allows for a consistent uninterrupted FAVOexperience throughout multiple web pages within a given website. In oneembodiment this is accomplished by keeping track of the root andsub-directories of a web site. An embodiment has the FAVO to a.) stoppersisting and to shut down after a web site has been left by the enduser, OR b.) persist for a set time period after the web site has beenleft by the end user, OR c.) persist until an EUI turns off the displayof the FAVO.

In one embodiment, user selection of a FAVO can be encouraged bylimiting other ads provided to the user. For example, if the userselects a Harry Potter FAVO, a browser can detect this, and stop thedisplay of a Harry Potter movie trailer that would otherwise appear on aweb page. This would be done by storing a cookie on the user machinewith a FAVO ID code. The cookie would be read by the browser, whichwould correlate it with a table indicating which ads are otherwise to bedisplayed. If the cookie corresponds to an ad, the ad will not bedisplayed. This allows advertisers to both achieve more targetedadvertising and provide a perceived benefit to the user. Also, ads forother movie types could be inhibited, or the same genre targeted, sincethe user desires are now known.

The end-user will be able to manage the properties and settings of howFAVOs play and exist on his or her system. The end-user will be able tocontrol the deletion, frequency of play, order of play-by creating playlists (a common feature in applications such as ITunes and Windows MediaPlayer), position on the screen, opacity level, number, size and volumeof the FAVO.

Interacting with a FAVO can initiate any programmable action such aslaunching a relevant page on the clients' website. For instance, if aFAVO is a fashion model a web page could be launched that hasinformation regarding the items—or items that are similar to—the itemsthat the fashion model FAVO is wearing, utilizing and/or gesturingtowards. This is useful to the customers as the FAVO is driving trafficto their existing web pages.

At certain key points in a FAVO, the video is mapped to include multipleend user interact-able hotspots. The hotspots are mapped as follows inone embodiment. The FAVO is launched and then the user clicks a freezeframe button during a portion of the FAVO content that lends itself to akey interaction point. For example, if a model was walking from a farpoint in 3D space towards the end user, as the model gets closer itappears to be larger. Once the model reaches its largest/closet pointthe user would hit the freeze frame button.

The mapping software—via tracking end user interactions—provides datafor the screen coordinates, the display frame dimensions, and the exactpixel that was interacted with in the display frame. The softwaredesigner decides what types of logical regions exist within the image.These regions can be anything on the FAVO. Customers will choose whatthe regions will consist of. Here's a list of possible items that afashion merchant might want to hot spot on their FAVOs: Head, shoes,shirt, bracelet, etc.

The software designer clicks on each corner of the region to identifythe pixel data for each of the four corners of this region. The designerthen enters this data into the source code in order to launch aprogrammatic event based on a EUI. This is repeated for each region ofthe FAVO that should be mapped out as a hotspot. The process isautomated in the following areas:

-   1. Automatic code generation based on the four corner region method    above.-   2. Free-form shape region tracing—similar to the lasso technique in    Adobe Photo Shop—also backed up with automatic code generation-   3. Region tracking algorithms that will allow accurate tracking    throughout all frames of the FAVO content. In one embodiment, this    is based on color range tracking. This tracking requires FAVO    content to be parsed into a smaller number of frames to insure    accuracy.

In one embodiment the code is stored in the FAVO object itself. In oneembodiment, a ‘Hot Spot List’ property contains all the hotspots regionsfor a given FAVO. In another embodiment the Client Module queries alook-up table containing hotspot region data for the various FAVO's.

As an example, the end-user can click on the model's shoe in a FAVO andthe clients' web page for the shoe would be launched, or can click onher blouse and the blouse web page would appear. As a result, anadvertiser can advertise multiple products and services on one singleFAVO. Hot spots can also be used to control the actions of the FAVO orto generate more scenes. This provides a more interactive experiencethan traditional videos. Rather than simply playing a video, thetechnology leverages the power of the computer to control playback andestablish meaningful viewer interaction, as well as deliver images in aninnovative frameless fashion.

In one embodiment, dynamic positioning of the logical regions does notrequire an end user to have to freeze the FAVO playback in order to havethe hotspots work accurately. For example, the area surrounding the FAVOis a hotspot in one embodiment. Visible and invisible areas surroundingFAVO can be hotspots. Hotspots can be trigger scenes. For example, ascene can appear that asks if you want to purchase and item (yes/no/tellme more). The FAVO can trigger the appearance of purchasable items,which separately are hotspots. The EUI generates separate FAVO(S).

The Technology

In addition to the FAVO, the technology is composed of three othersoftware objects that interact with each other:

-   -   Client Module, in one embodiment resides on the end-users'        systems. The Client Module receives the FAVO's from the DSDMS        via a third-party content delivery partner. The Client Module        interacts with the end-users and controls and runs the FAVO's.        The Client Module also logs impressions, clicks and time spent,        and sends this information to the DSDMS.    -   The DSDMS, which resides in the systems. The DSDMS is a software        engine that connects and controls the various interlocking        pieces of a FAVO ad campaign. To that effect, the DSDMS        encompasses server components and a relational data base system        that supports distribution of the ad campaign. The DSDMS        delivers the FAVO to the end-users through a third-party content        delivery partner to ensure scalability and reliability. The        DSDMS also communicates with the Client Module and tracks and        records the actions and time spent by the end-users with the        clients' ad initiatives. Finally, the DSDMS generates ad metrics        reports to the Avazap/Sponsor portals. The DSDMS and the Client        Module form a two way conversation.        -   1. To insure reliable content and software update delivery            the DSDMS will utilize a third party content delivery            network to facilitate the transfer of content and software            updates to the Client Module.        -   2. The Client Module has various properties that are cached            on the end user device and then uploaded to the DSDMS. These            are small bits of information and are directly uploaded to            the DSDMS. Other small data pieces or commands will travel            from the DSDMS directly to the Client Module    -   Avazap/Sponsor Portals, are web based software services. The        portals contain a reporting tool that monitors all aspects of        the life cycle of the sponsors' ad campaigns and provides the        sponsor with live and detailed reports of end-user activity. The        portal is a web based form/tool that allows Avazap and its'        customers/FAVO sponsors to track the activity of their FAVO        initiatives. There are tabs on the form that address the        following sponsor concerns:        -   Impression reports            -   Total impressions by client            -   Impressions by FAVO            -   Impressions by campaign            -   Impressions by timeframe            -   Impressions by location/region/demographics            -   Impression by scene        -   User reports        -   Revenue reports        -   Customer reports        -   Customer data reports        -   Campaign reports        -   Custom-tailored report generating tools for both AVAZAP and            Customers.        -   Real time graphic campaign and customer report visualization            tools.        -   These will allow customers a real time, visual view            campaigns, users and FAVOs across the globe.

Metrics

-   -   Impressions—generally looked at an advertising view        -   from which bill based on a negotiated CPM rate    -   EUI        -   Click rates        -   interaction time            -   This includes time where the end user is actively                engaged with the FAVO.                -   Such moving it around on the screen or changing the                    FAVO's frequency of appearance.    -   E-commerce data        -   Identifies which FAVO generated the purchase    -   End user demographics    -   Client Module settings    -   Auction bidding and monitoring    -   These metrics will grow/adapt based on client feedback

Merchant/Customer Portal Usage Example:

-   -   The portal provides a software tool to empower the relationship        between account manager and customer liaison    -   As a web based tool the portal is accessible via a computer        and/or a mobile device    -   By simply logging on—with password verification—the liaison will        be able to have an instant snapshot regarding the state of their        FAVO initiative

In one embodiment FIG. 4 is an example of software location andinteraction wherein a relational database system stores, delivers andmonitors data in communication with a.) client software on an end userdevice, b.) FAVO information stored on Customer device, c.) 3^(rd) partycontent delivery networks, and d.) Web based portals for reportgeneration.

FIG. 4 #400 Sponsors Systems are the devices—such as personal computersor handheld mobiles—that the Customers use to access digitalinformation. FAVO information will be downloaded to the Avazap Systems

FIG. 4 #401 Portal is the part of the system that Customers will use tocreate and monitor ad campaigns, see statistics (click throughs andimpressions). In one embodiment it will be a standard ASP.Net 2.0 WebApplication using Telerik RadControls and AJAX to provide an easy to useand responsive User Interface.

FIG. 4 #402 Avazaps systems are the various devices and systems used byAvazap to monitor the system, create and delete FAVO and FAVO scenemetadata, etc. In one embodiment it will be a standard ASP.Net 2.0 WebApplication using Telerik RadControls and AJAX to provide an easy to useand responsive User Interface.

FIG. 4 #403. In one embodiment the DSDMS contains two database servers.The main database server and the secondary database server will be quadcore or dual core Intel machines, running Windows Server 2003 and SQLServer 2005. The Primary database will accept incoming statistics fromdesktop Client Modules, and log them to tables. These tables are thenreplicated to the secondary server, which does the main processing ofstatistics. This allows the Primary database server to be optimized forOLTP (Online Transaction Processing), enabling millions of statistics tobe recorded 24/7. The Primary database server will also host AvazapSystems and Portal databases. The secondary database server will be usedto aggregate and process statistics, and will be configured for OLAP(online analytical processing) usage, with indexes optimized forqueries. We will use SQL Server Database Mirroring to have a hot backupof the Primary Database, should it fail. We will user SQL ServerContinuous Replication to transfer uploaded statistics to the secondaryserver, where they can be aggregated and processed without slowing downthe processing of incoming data. The statistics from the desktop clientson impressions and click throughs will be aggregated into OLAP cubesusing Microsoft Analysis Services, along with statistics on clients (IPaddresses that can be converted into geographical locations withgeocoding techniques, stats on Operating Systems etc.). These cubes willbe available for use on the Avazap Systems and Portals to be able topivot and analyze both FAVO and system usage.

FIG. 4 #404 The FAVO'S are all of the FAVO'S from all of the Customers.They reside on the Avazaps Systems. In one embodiment, we may implementthe FAVO's using the same Microsoft Agent technology as in theprototype. In other embodiments we my implement the FAVO's usingMicrosoft Silverlight, Windows Presentation Foundation and/or Adobe Airduring the initial design phase of the project.

FIG. 4 #405 3^(rd) Party Content Delivery Partner: Akamai (or a similarpartner) will be used to stage and download FAVO's and new versions ofthe Client Module.

FIG. 4 #406 End Users Systems are the devices—such as personal computersor handheld mobiles—that the End Users use to access digitalinformation. FAVO & Client Module information will be downloaded to theAvazap Systems from the 3^(rd) Party Content Delivery Partner.

FIG. 4 #407 Client Module will render the actual FAVO's on the End UsersSystems, and will also provide a toolbar tray icon for setting basicoptions. In one embodiment, the visual component of the Client Moduleswill be a C# .NET 2.0 windowless form, using COM interop to callMicrosoft Agent. In other embodiments we will create different playersfor different operating systems to achieve the highest possible level ofEnd User experience. There will be non-visual components of the ClientModule. The module will run on each desktop and be used to communicatewith the DSDMS. It will use secure web service calls to uploadstatistics (click throughs, impressions) to the DSDMS via a ClientModule service system. It will also use the Client Module service systemto check for new versions of the Client Module, as well as for newFAVO'S. It will be responsible for downloading new content from the3^(rd) Party Content Delivery Partner. In one embodiment this will be a.NET 2.0 c# application. The Client Module service system is a set ofsecured web services that are used by the Client Module to uploadstatistics and download information about available FAVO's and ClientModule upgrades.

FIG. 4 #408 The FAVO'S are all of the FAVO'S on the End Users Systems.In one embodiment, we may implement the FAVO's using the same MicrosoftAgent technology as in the prototype. In other embodiments we myimplement the FAVO's using Microsoft Silverlight, Windows PresentationFoundation and/or Adobe Air during the initial design phase of theproject.

The FAVO and the Client Module use minimal space on end-user harddrives: in one embodiment less than 1 MB for the Player and 2 to 4 MBfor each FAVO depending on their duration, although varying sizes couldbe used. In one embodiment this space requirement is based on theaverage FAVO requiring 8 MB per minute of content. A temporary cache isused for streaming purposes. In one embodiment the FAVOs will reside onthe hard drive of the device for the life-cycle of the FAVO campaign.Large FAVOs can be parsed into smaller frame segments to managestreaming or other software issues.

In addition, running a FAVO campaign has very little impact onend-users' computer performance and leaves plenty of computationalcapacity for an end-user to run multiple applications. The end-user canhave a single FAVO running at a time, or can run of multiple FAVO whileconcurrently running multiple applications, which requires more CPUtime.

In one embodiment the system leverages existing functionalities ofend-users' systems. Multiple versions of the Client Module are providedfor each different operating system. The Client Modules leverage thecode libraries of different operating systems. For example, theproprietary code base will be built on top of the proven MicrosoftWindows Application Programming Interface.

The Software's Interaction with End-Users and Clients

In one embodiment the Client Module is first installed by the end-useron his or her system after responding positively to a solicitation toview the FAVO. This solicitation can be initiated by various means:

-   -   Advertiser's emails to the consumer, including HTML empowered        emails that display FAVO;    -   Click-button on advertiser's website;    -   Web-linked ads on third-party website, which can either be        traditional or video banners or web browser formatted FAVO;    -   Forward by existing end-users to friends, as each FAVO will have        a “send-to-friend” option; and    -   Free CD/DVDs distributed with magazines, attached to other        merchandise, or handed out in public events. Any other portable        media, such as flash drives, could be used.

The installation of the Client Module is designed to be light and quickand as user-friendly as updating Adobe's Flash Player, if not more so.

An ad campaign may contain any number of scenes/FAVOs as the end-userwill enjoy the experience with more content. An individual FAVO cancontain several imbedded scenes. Each FAVO consists of short (e.g., 15to 30-second) scenes that blend advertising and entertainment. Once theend-user opts-in to receive the campaign, the FAVOs transparently streamto his system. These scenes are played in sequence and then randomlywhenever the end-user activates the FAVO. The Client module tracks thenumber of times a given scene is played, which enables metric reportsthat clearly distinguish the first viewing of a FAVO from subsequentrepeat viewings. This capability allows the customer to value—and to becharged different rates for—the initial viewing versus repeat subsequentviewings of each given FAVO; and to gauge the end user acceptance of agiven FAVO based on the number of viewings of said given FAVO.

In one embodiment the Client Module will reside on the end-user's systemeven after the end of a campaign. At any time, the Client Module canreceive new campaign materials from the same advertiser and offer themto the end-users who would have opted-in for it. The system can trackand question end-users on their scope of interest and judiciouslysolicit them to receive targeted campaigns from new advertisers. Theresulting database can be used for existing and new customers to targetnew consumers.

In one embodiment the FAVOs are saved on the end-user's system, ensuringan extended-stay of the ads. If the content is compelling, i.e. visuallyentertaining and the utility solid, the end-user will allow severalreplays of each FAVO, ensuring multiple impressions. This effect ismultiplied if the end-user activates the companion mode where the FAVOfloats on top of other applications. In one embodiment the end user cantag a given FAVO as favorable which would cause it to replay more oftenthan other FAVO's or tag a given FAVO as unfavorable which would removethe FAVO list of FAVO's to be played in the future.

FIG. 5 is an example of multiple impression solution. As an example, ifwe assume that the sponsor is a fashion retailer, the FAVO may consistof models wearing multiple outfits walking up and down a virtual runway.The number of scenes and impressions could easily reach into thehundreds. The models represent the “compelling content” FIG. 5 #500; theability to directly purchase what each model is wearing demonstrates the“solid utility” FIG. 5 #501; those factors promote the “extended screentop residency” FIG. 5 # 502 and result in “multiple impressions perend-user, per ad campaign” FIG. 5 #503.

It is desirable to make the FAVOs enjoyable, entertaining andinteractive in order for the consumers to opt-in to the marketingcampaign.

Content Creation

The audio-visual content is prepared in a manner similar to producing TVcommercials. Scenes are shot in front of green screen in order to createflawless frameless videos.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart example of the production process. A FAVO is madeup of individual frames of content. These frames are exactly the same asa movie frame. The frame has transparent regions that become invisibleor partially so. This gives the illusion that the FAVO Content is notsurrounded by a border. Rather it is a free-form organic shape. Toachieve this effect using real world objects the item/person is filmedagainst a ‘green screen’ FIG. 6 # 600-601. Then after filming thesubject matter is isolated from the filmed background via giving everyother pixel the transparent color code FIG. 6 # 603-604. Ifsemi-transparency is desired an alpha-channel is used on the desiredpixels to give a see-through effect. After each frame is processedduring this post-production process they are grouped together to form ascene FIG. 6 # 605. This flip-book animation is the basis of all movingpictures that form the basis of modern cinema. With as little as 10frames per second the illusion of a real world scene can be achieved.After the scenes are processed the scene content is further processed toachieve the FAVO objects FIG. 6 # 606-607.

The Portal provides clients with live and detailed reports on end-useractivity such as impression count, click-through count/rate, totalengagement time, end-user settings, favorite FAVO, and playbackfrequency. The reporting can be customized and expanded to handle thespecific metric needs of individual clients.

The Value Proposition

The solution is a new ad format, delivery and tracking system. What weare offering is borderless video messages that live beyond a single webpage, web browser or display frame of any software application. Ratherthan having a marketing message locked into a single application window,the product creates a direct pipeline to the consumer. This pipelineallows the sponsors to strengthen their connection to their customerswhile providing exciting content, news flashes, promotional discountsand a living icon that can drive traffic to their web pages.

The sponsors' challenge is to integrate the marketing message within thecontent in such a way as to entertain and not annoy the end-user. Oncethis challenge is overcome, the end-user will spend many minutes—if nothours, days or months—willingly interacting with and being influenced bythe marketing campaign.

Because the FAVO are opted-in by the end-users, they are inherently moreefficient than online video ads in a browser including overlays. As aresult, we believe FAVO deserve to be priced at a premium relative toexisting online video solutions. However, we believe the business modelis profitable at or under the rate offered by current online videosolutions.

Key Benefits of the Technology

In summary, the technology offers key competitive characteristicsrelative to other online video advertising solutions:

-   -   Embedded e-commerce. A FAVO allows a direct link through itself,        or a pointed to object, etc., to enable purchasing objects or        viewing a catalog or other e-commerce activities, including        bookmarking, filtering, indexing, etc.    -   High Definition. The format has been designed for high        definition video. We believe high definition is a key element        for objects to look as living as possible and for the end-user        to enjoy the experience.    -   Frameless. The FAVO are free of any border or window and        generally take the form of real world objects. These natural,        organically-shaped objects resonate with the human eyes and        brain, helping to humanize the computing experience.    -   Outside of a single web page or the web browser. As opposed to        traditional video ads that are played from web pages, the FAVO        are played outside of a browser: they are played on the top        layer of the operating system and are therefore viewable by the        end-user while working with other applications. The FAVO can be        used as software companions for the end-users.    -   Interactive, capable of multiple hot spots. Mouse clicking on a        FAVO can initiate any programmable action, and at certain key        points in a FAVO, the video can be mapped to include multiple        clickable hotspots.    -   Light CPU usage and ease of download. By requiring limited CPU        usage, the Client Module and DSDMS can be run without slowing        down the end-user's system and therefore can be enjoyed by the        end-user while using many other applications. The installation        of the Player is fast and user-friendly.    -   Flexible content management. Sponsors fully control how long        FAVO can stay on the end-user's computer. In addition,        advertisers can add additional FAVO to deliver more content for        a particular campaign.    -   Non-intrusive. The end-user fully controls which campaign to        receive and which particular FAVO to replay. It is not the        intention to force content that is not expressly accepted by the        end-user. In addition, the end-user also controls the position        of the FAVO on the screen, their opacity, size and volume.    -   Extended-stay. In one embodiment the FAVO are saved on the        end-user's system hard drive and therefore can be replayed as        many times as desired by the end-user whether or not connected        to the internet. The combined effects of “extended-stay” and        “non-intrusion” will result in multiple ad impressions for each        FAVO video.        Selected End Segments and Applications

Examples of types of promotions include the following:

-   -   Promotion of pop stars and entertainers;    -   Promotion of products and services by celebrities;    -   Promotion of sports organizations by sports stars;    -   Interactive advertising for fashion retailers;    -   Promotion of destination hotels and resorts;    -   Promotion of movies/TV shows and their corresponding DVD and        Blue-ray discs;    -   Promotion of video games and their expansion packs and        merchandise; and    -   Simple visual “eye candy” such as retailer sponsored “flower of        the month” or “kitten of the day”.

Other applications of the technology include:

-   -   Political idea dissemination and fund-raising where the        politician is the FAVO;    -   Children's educational tutorials with the FAVO as the teacher;    -   Interactive counterpart to children's toys with the FAVO being a        digital replica of the toy;    -   Entertainment where the FAVO is the stand alone star of its own        show;    -   Weather reports, news flashes and chronicles;    -   Special event messaging (such as greeting cards) for which        consumers will be able to create their own FAVO;    -   Next generation portals presented by FAVO anchors;    -   Next generation online shopping tool where the consumer        purchases directly from the FAVO;    -   Customer service such as FAQ or tutorials presented by FAVO;    -   Applications for mobile devices and set-top boxes; and    -   Next generation instant social networking or social-blogging        where the FAVO is the message.

The following is a description of how the solution is compelling forselect targeted advertisement end markets. These specific examples arefictional, and are intended to illustrate general customer applications,and to clarify how the solution is utilized in the real world.

Pop Stars and Entertainers

Promoting popular stars and entertainers is a natural fit for thesolution. These celebrities have huge fan bases, an establishedmedia/web presence, existing sponsors and their own product lines. Mostimportantly they are audio-visually appealing. Popular musicians areideal candidates as they can dance, sing and speak well. These allhappen to be great qualities for a software companion.

FIG. 4 is a fictional example centers of Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montanabursts out promoting her latest song. A Hannah Montana FAVO couldinteract with fans in a number of enjoyable ways. She could speak to herfans in person, engaging them and making them feel like they have apersonal relationship with Hannah. This is a potent desire of fans,especially in the age group that Hannah targets. This will significantlyadd to the “stickiness” and longevity of her screen top residency. Shecan live on the desktop or offer a continual presence by floating on topof the web browser as her fans bounce from web page to web page.

Hannah could sing and dance while she promotes her new songs, albums orconcerts. She would also be able to promote her many associated productsdirectly by speaking about them, indirectly by wearing them and/or usingthem as props in any of her daily updatable scenes.

Hannah is associated with a large number of products. She has her ownclothing line called Asda Clothing and is also in partnership withDisney and Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart sells over 140 Hannah Montana products. AHannah Montana FAVO would be an ideal way for advertisers to promotethese products. In addition, Hannah Montana might promote new episodesof her TV show, other Disney performers, products or events.

Hannah's enterprise and associated sponsors would derive significantbenefits from the Hannah Montana FAVO. Aside from the productadvertising and show/event notifications mentioned above, the FAVO wouldincrease Hannah Montana's branding. Hannah Montana's fan demographics(teen and pre-teen girls) are apt to download and share computercontent. As a result, we believe that a Hannah Montana FAVO campaigncould quickly spread out on desktops around the world.

Due to the size of Hannah Montana's fan club, we anticipate firstend-users of these FAVO to share them with friends ensuring a fasterdissemination of the campaign. In one embodiment, pop-up menus areprovided on the FAVO itself, or menu items are provided in the Playerthat would launch a form.

-   -   to send emails    -   post to web sites or web pages    -   link to social networks

In one embodiment, code can be pasted into a website or webpage toenable permanent FAVO insertion into that web site. An embodimentsupports drag-n-drop to websites or web pages. This is insert code thatwill remain a permanent part of said web site or web page. An embodimentutilizes said websites existing widget code pasting procedures. Anembodiment supports inserting multiple FAVO into said websites or webpages

The end-user will be able to manage the properties and settings of howFAVOs play and exist on the web page that the FAVO has been insertedinto. The end-user will be able to control the deletion, frequency ofplay, order of play, position on the screen, opacity level, number, sizeand volume of the FAVO.

Another embodiment allows the sponsor to reward—according to thesponsors' desires—the end user if another end user grabs the FAVO andputs it on a different website. The said rewards may be based on anytracked EUI on said different website. Furthermore, if yet a differentend user grabs the FAVO and puts it on a different website each end userin the sequence of FAVO sharing end users may be rewarded by thesponsor. This describes a multi-level hierarchy of sharing and rewardedend users. This can be tracked by giving an end user that share FAVO's aunique sharing ID. This data can be used by the DSDMS to track multiplesuccessive layers of sharing and reward these FAVO sharing end usersaccording the sponsors desires.

All of the above applications support optional downloading orinstantiating of the Client Module to enable FAVO persistence that isindependent of software application display frames.

Sports Stars and Sports Organizations

Sport stars are also ideal candidates for a FAVO ad campaign. Reasonsinclude: (i) huge fan bases, (ii) constantly changing statistics thatcan be presented to those attentive fans, (iii) existing endorsementcontracts that can be cross-market opportunities, (iv) organizationalstructures like the MBA, NBA, NFL, NHL and PGA that will sponsor thestars as they promote their sports and branded merchandising.

FIG. 5 is a fictional example featuring Tiger Woods sponsored by Nike.With fans throughout the world, a wide mix of high value advertisers,and interesting content, Tiger Woods FAVO would be widely welcomed. Hewould also be an effective way to brand and drive direct sales.Campaigns could be anchored by any of his numerous sponsors (Nike, EASports, Buick, Accenture, Titleist, American Express, Gillette) or by asport organization such as the PGA, or by any combination of the above.

Imagine if Nike was the lead sponsor for the marketing campaign. Inconjunction with the clients we could produce scenes with Tiger wearinga Nike hat and his new signature Nike golf shoes while he is driving,putting, inspecting the putt, etc. These could be (or not depending onsponsor preference) interspersed with associated direct advertisementsuch as the shoe alone appearing briefly on the screen. Click on theshoe and it takes you to the Nike webpage highlighting the same shoe.This type of directed traffic makes it easy for an end-user to get moreinformation or purchase any item that catches his eye.

The FAVO can link to information about Tiger, or simply display it. Forexample, current score and standing in an ongoing tournament, hisschedule for the next month, etc. A pop-up of his current score couldoccur after every hole during a tournament. This can be accomplished bylinking with sites that provide real-time sports updates.

This is but one of many possible campaign concepts. Tiger Woods as aFAVO could easily perform spokesperson activities for organizations suchas the PGA, providing key information to willing fans. Golfers, asidefrom simply liking Tiger Woods and enjoying his presence as a softwarecompanion, might also enjoy studying his various golf strokes. Adetailed Tiger Woods sponsored golf lesson of the day is yet anotherangle that would be well received.

Fashion Retailers

The technology is particularly well-suited to specialized retailers.Some of the most potent retailing applications are in the world offashion. In this case the model wearing the clothing is both the contentand the advertisement. Although this can also occur with sports and popstars, those types of campaign will most likely be sponsored by acorporate brand. With a fashion marketing campaign we can achieve a truesynergy of advertising and entertainment or as we like to call it,“advertainment”.

FIG. 6 is a fictional example of large format FAVO promoting theVictoria's Secret swimwear line. With its potent fusing of advertisementand compelling content, a campaign for Victoria's Secret is particularlyattractive to two types of users: “catalog users” and “eye candy users”.

The “catalog user” is presented with a new and superior way to viewmerchandise.

Using the technology, a user will be able to see what the product lookslike from multiple angles in an exciting “living” way. ImagineVictoria's Secret models doing catwalks on the screen, showcasingclothes and performing. Changes in size and direction, 360° views andall the excitement models bring to the catwalk can be emulated with thisapproach.

Users could choose to view the catalog full screen as a stand-aloneshow, or the show could be played in a smaller, less intrusive manner.This small sideshow is particularly interesting because it allows for“simultaneous viewing”. Unlike browser experiences, which tend to takeup valuable screen real estate and interfere with other activities, theFAVO presentation takes place as one continues his normal workflow onthe computer.

For example, an office employee could have the FAVO play in bottomcorner as he or she continues to work. If he or she sees something ofinterest on the FAVO, he or she could then click on it and be taken tothe Victoria's Secret Website to learn more. If not, he or she couldcontinue on with his or her work. The FAVO catalog is a new, innovativeand superior form of web-powered catalog.

The other type of user is the “eye candy user”. Many users, both men andwomen, will be interested in the Victoria's Secret FAVO simply for thevisual, “eye candy” experience. Beautiful models strutting on the screenshowing off bathing suits and lingerie is a compelling experience.Beautiful women with fresh and varied content will stimulate end-usersworldwide to eagerly download and continue to update these free “living”Victoria's Secret models.

We also expect that this type of user will let their friends know aboutthese free downloads and add to the viral marketing power of these FAVO.We anticipate that this type of “eye candy” has the potential to becomea permanent fixture of the computing experience.

The benefits for Victoria's Secret are many: increased catalog usage anddistribution, enhanced branding and recognition, and increased sales.The FAVO marketing tool is an ideal enhancement to Victoria's Secret'sexisting advertising campaign strategy.

Product Promotion and E-Commerce

Our technology can also be used for product-centered campaigns that donot require a human experience. These non-human yet visually pleasingFAVO are well suited for our optional embedded e-commerce capabilities.This innovation empowers an end-user to purchase an item displayed as aFAVO with a simple mouse click, thereby bypassing the need to surf to aretailer's website; or as we like to say, “See it, Click it, Own it!”™

The next fictional example revolves round 1800FLOWERS.COM.

This example illustrates how our FAVO can be attractive, entertaining,interactive and valuable for end-users, who will therefore choose todownload our technology and to receive new campaigns. With flower FAVO,end-users can replicate on their computer desktop the decorationelements they are already used to have in their office or home. FlowerFAVO are entertaining as they can move, bloom or be static and can bechanged as often as desired. They are interactive as end-users canchoose the flowers they want to see, make them transparent, increase ordecrease their size or have as many flower FAVO as they would like.Flower FAVO also represent a valuable content as end-users can learnflowers' name, history, geographic origin, season just through a simpleclick.

For 1800FLOWERS.COM flower FAVO represent an efficient advertising,promotion and e-commerce engine. As discussed previously, clicks onflower FAVO can drive web traffic on 1800FLOWERS.COM. In addition, ourFAVO can integrate an embedded e-commerce engine that would bypass theadvertiser's website. After an initial purchase or sign-in that wouldrecord end-users' data (payment information, address, etc.) this newe-commerce engine will enable the end-user to make seamless, integratedpurchases. Simplifying the buying process will foster commerce andespecially increase the likelihood of impulsive shopping.

By providing fresh digital flowers on a daily basis, 1800FLOWERS.COMexchanges gorgeous eye candy for a valuable direct pipeline to itscustomer base that can communicate promotions and news in a timely andvery direct manner. 1800FLOWERS.COM would also use a FAVO billboardsoftware object that would present its regular customers with discounts,reward points and/or other promotions. Now promotions are lively andprovided in an innovative, entertaining and engaging way.

Various embodiments include a highly scalable, redundant and secureserver solution to serve (i) the information collected by the DSDMS fromthe Client Modules across the end-user base and (ii) the reports sent bythe DSDMS to the Sponsor/Portals across the customer base. This ensuresthe scalability and reliability of the information as the datacollected.

Another embodiment provides an automated digital content productionpipeline: a new suite of software designed to further enhance thecreation process of the FAVO from the production through thepost-production processes. The core element of the digital contentproduction pipeline automatically removes the green background andgenerates the frameless object instantly. This provides immediatefeedback to production teams on-set therefore reducing filming sessionsand interaction with post-production. In addition, editing tools andmodules for the digital content production pipeline further reduce thelead time for post-production.

In one embodiment the Client Module supports other platforms includingApple Mac OSX. The Client Module's features set can be expanded based onend-user and client feedback.

One embodiment provides a third-party monitoring and verification systemthat further strengthens the credibility within the client base.

Re-usable code modules are specifically designed for clients in the samevertical in order to leverage the sales and marketing effort. Forexample, modules for the promotion of movies include pre-built code forfinding local theater times and to purchase tickets directly from theClient Module and are able to be re-used for other customers in the samevertical.

As discussed above on pages 22-23, the software is integrated with thevarious popular social networks. This makes it very easy for theend-users to place a FAVO on their social network web page and thereforeshare it with all their friends. As a result, this will accelerate thediffusion of a campaign.

End-users can generate their own content. This Web 2.0 initiative hingeson the image display software object and the development of an automatedimage background removal tool. This automated tool is based upon thedigital content production pipeline. This digital pipeline allows a FAVOto be generated in real time. With such a capability, “end-user as FAVO”based greetings can be shared amongst loved ones. Imagine having yourvery own children as desktop based software companions. This innovativemessaging software will take the form of a web page-based tool whereend-users can make and send FAVOs of themselves via their home computersand video cameras. A potential clicks-and-mortar enhancement would be tocreate a kiosk positioned in shopping malls or areas where consumerscongregate. This would be for convenience and higher quality imagery.

The Client Module will also function on mobile devices and set topboxes. Currently television stations run FAVO's on top of a program thatis being shown on a particular station to promote their sponsors orother television programs. This trend has occurred to counter act thefact that programs are often recorded and conventional commercials canbe avoided by fast forwarding past them. However these broadcastedFAVO's are similar to embedded on a web page. For example, when an enduser leaves a particular web page all of the content—includingFAVO—disappears to reveal the content of the next web page; in the samefashion when a viewer changes the channel the content—includingFAVO—disappears to reveal the program that is broadcast on the newstation. In contrast, in the present invention the FAVO will float ontop of the television display—powered by our Client Module—and remainvisible regardless of what station is on. This empowers end users tochoose their content and if desired they can drag the FAVO to a positionon the screen that will visually obscure the FAVO being broadcasted bythe current channel. One way to describe this is a framelesspicture-in-picture.

One embodiment provides special effects such as morphing, looping andbranching of images to increase user interaction with the FAVO.

In other embodiments, the FAVO can be integrated with other technology.For example, the FAVO could be an image of the end user, with theend-user's dimensions, to allow modeling of how clothes would look onthe end user. One example of an implementation is set forth in U.S. Pat.No. 7,522,165. A FAVO on a mobile device can use location based ad andcoupon technology (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,647,257).

User Interactions

EUI: End user interaction. A subset of possible EUI include clicking onany part of the FAVO, clicking on a particular part of the FAVO, or auser voice command. The interaction between a device can occur in manydifferent ways. As devices evolve additional EUI may become possible.Here is a list of current standard EUI:

-   -   Key board events    -   Mouse events. For example:        -   Click        -   Double click        -   Roll over    -   Touch events    -   Voice events    -   Movement of the device events

All of these events cause the device to initiate some form of softwarecode that can launch a software or hardware event. Sometimes a EUIinitiated in a 3rd party software application will activate a FAVO notdirectly associated with said application. Primarily we will focus onEUI dealing specifically with FAVOs.

The Client Module has the ability to track any EUI. The Client Modulewill interact with the web browser API to register interestingactivities. Tracking is done of time spent with FAVO where the FAVO isthe software application that is active and in focus. Determined byseveral factors including but not limited to

-   -   Clicking    -   Menu selection    -   Property setting    -   Commerce states        -   Window shopping        -   Actually purchasing    -   Portal activity where the FAVO is the launch point to any form        of application    -   End user determined favorable or unfavorable FAVO status

The EUI information is stored within the Client Module and optionally inthe DSDMS

Additional FAVO Features

The FAVO can appear to move from the computer to the phone. In oneembodiment, this is done with separate, synched applications on each, sothe model is wearing the same outfit when the user goes to lunch andchecks his/her phone. One option is for the FAVO to hop back and forthbetween devices where the user is using both devices.

Transferring FAVO

To and from software applications [note: the operating system of adevice is also a software app.]

-   -   Application to OS: Here we are talking about the FAVO moving        its' residency from an application to the home page/desktop of        the devices operating system.        -   Downloading FAVO content to the OS    -   OS to application:        -   Uploading content to an application    -   Non-OS application To/From Non-OS application        -   Here the FAVO moves between and integrates with another            software application.            -   As mentioned above from one end user social network web                page to another end users social network page.

To and from different end user devices.

-   -   Personal computer to personal computer    -   Handheld device to handheld device        -   Cell phone to IPod, etc.    -   Personal computer to handheld        -   Vice versa.

Examples of user options for when the FAVO appears:

-   -   On system start up    -   On application minimization    -   On application close    -   On EUI that launches FAVO        -   Desktop icon        -   Tray icon        -   Application launch window icon        -   Home screen icon    -   On voice command

In one embodiment, the FAVO detect when the user is busy and shrink tothe corner. In another, it will enlarge to full screen when the userclicks on it. The software can detect where windows are open, and movethe FAVO to the side of these. It can either get out of the way, or moveinto the user's peripheral vision. The FAVO can freeze when moused over,to make it easier for the user to click hotspots. A user can selectdifferent FAVOs for different categories, and link them to differentappearance schedules. For example:

-   -   celebrities could appear when the browser is active,    -   an investment advisor FAVO with financial ads could appear when        the user is on the Schwab.com site, etc.        Day in the Life of the Desktop Doctor (DTD)

This DTD application is useful in demonstrating the FAVO role as cyberexpert. Basically, the DTD solution provides a direct pipeline to eachend user [the Patient] and is designed to help these Patients maintainthe correct procedures in administrating their medications. Afteraddressing this core solution the DTD allows pharmaceutical companies[the Client] to directly market other goods and services to thesePatients.

Background Info

-   -   Certain medications currently come with video and literature        based guides and tutorials.        -   Our FAVO solution extends these guides by integrating into            the fabric of the Patient's life; a life that is            increasingly intertwined with visual displays of digital            devices.    -   Our unique type of cyber tutorial will be compliant and        integrated into the FDA'S REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation        Strategy) requirements.    -   The FAVO based form factor has many advantages in relation to        traditional tutorials that can be leveraged by our Clients.    -   One key advantage is that an actual doctor appears to be living        in the Patients device:        -   A great deal of the healing power comes from the Patients'            belief the wisdom and capability of the health practitioner.        -   Adding a simulated human element to the health equation will            stimulate this belief process.        -   With the DTD solution the digital device appears to have a            resident medical doctor;            -   A doctor that guides and reminds and safeguards the                Patient.    -   Another advantage is that the software will require very little        computer experience beyond inserting the install disk and/or        clicking a download button.        -   Many of the Patients using the DTD will be elderly and/or            not that comfortable with digital devices.        -   Bullet-proof easy to run software will help to bridge this            gap.        -   Although essentially a self-running software application the            DTD has several options and features that can be explored by            the Patient to further enhance their experience.    -   In summary, the DTD solution will be a great addition to any        Patients' health regimen by providing a virtual health        professional that is integrated into the Patients' lifestyle.

Initial Download/Install

-   -   The software will be both disk-based and/or downloadable via the        web        -   A disk version may come from:            -   the prescribing physician            -   the Client            -   the pharmacy/drug store        -   Web download            -   Where will the Patient first see the DTD                -   Clients' web site                -   Banner ad                -   Email        -   Download experience            -   Where ever the Patient first encounters the DTD what                they will experience the content as a web overlay based                FAVO.            -   It may begin as a standard banner ad where a doctor                steps beyond the confines of the banner ad unit.                -   As a banner based FAVO the audio will most likely be                    muted until an EUI turns the audio on            -   It may appear as an overlay immediately once the web                page is loaded.            -   It may launch as soon as an email is opened.                -   In this case it will appear as a FAVO based doctor                    floating on top of the email application; which is a                    unique and catchy way to grab an end user attention            -   In most cases the FAVO will be supported by standard                text informing the Patient to click some object or the                FAVO itself to get more information.            -   The FAVO will then employ life-like verbal and body                language to explain the value of the DTD while                encouraging these Patients to download the software onto                their operating system            -   Once the Patient agrees via any form of EUI the FAVO                will step or move beyond the browser or email                application and appear to move onto the OS desktop or                float on top of other applications                -   This may require a partial or total minimizing of                    the browser or app that launched the initial                    encounter            -   Moving beyond the application window will provide the                illusion that the DTD is now living within the digital                device and is no longer just something on a web page.                -   This will effect will really be brought home once                    the Patient leaves the web page to discover the DTD                    is still present.            -   While the Player application is being loaded onto the OS                the Patient will be receiving seamless FAVO content.                -   They won't be waiting for the application to load in                    order to be experiencing content                -   This streaming of instantaneous content will be                    handled by our 3^(rd) party content delivery partner                    and will eliminate needless waiting to receive audio                    visual content.    -   Once the DTD solution is installed on the Patients digital        device that device will have the necessary software to receive        any form of Avazaps' FAVO content initiatives without the end        user needing to install any more software.        -   This supports Avazaps' goal of getting the core FAVO            software on as many devices as possible.        -   This allows the Customer to participate in Avazaps' other            Customers FAVO initiatives.            -   Once a Customer DTD base of installed Patients grows to                a significant number, And . . .            -   Once enough metrics have been generated to prove that a                significant number of Patients are interacting with the                software, Then . . .            -   The Customer via Avazap technology is delivering a                highly focused form of new media.            -   This media has a content queue with many daily slots of                messages.            -   The Customer can make some of these slots available to                3^(rd) party marketers.            -   The marketers can simply purchase message queue slots.                Or . . .            -   The Customer can take advantage of Avazaps' auction                based FAVO content engine and allow these 3^(rd) party                marketers to bid on open slots.            -   The Customer can also take advantage of the Patients                demographic data to offer the 3^(rd) party marketers a                deeper level of targeting sophistication.

Day in the Life

-   -   When the Patient first encounters any of their DTD enabled        devices the DTD will be waiting with its first message for the        Patient.        -   The playback of this message can be initiated in several            ways;            -   Set to automatically play once a device is:                -   turned on                -   Idle for x number of minutes            -   Activated by the Patient clicking on the DTD                -   The DTD can be floating on top of other applications                    or just floating on the desktop for this case.            -   Activated by clicking a FAVO based icon                -   Here the icon that used to launch applications in                    virtually every digital device that has a display                    have been replaced by a moving—living FAVO icon.                -    This will require integrating with the API handling                    icon behavior for each OS.                -    Alternatively, the OS specific icon behavior can be                    mimicked to simulate standard icon protocol.                -   This icon mode further enhances the idea that the                    DTD lives within the device    -   Here's a list of possible daily messages appropriate for the        Patient first encounter with DTD        -   These core messages will have many variations that will be            repeated randomly in order to be more life-like and less            boring.        -   Always starting with a Customer logo/jingle            -   This promotes brand building            -   Various permutations on the logo representation will                enhance the visual appeal of this—somewhat                gratuitous—form of advertisement        -   Take your pill reminder:            -   The core and potentially life-saving message.        -   Greetings            -   Relative to the time of day            -   Holiday special greetings            -   Birthday greetings        -   Any updates from the Customer            -   Possible alerts or new found contra-indications            -   These may be delivered via a web powered billboard-style                application.                -   This billboard will take advantage of the free-form                    FAVO capabilities.        -   Healthy life-style/positive affirmations        -   At some point during these messages the Customer logo will            simultaneously appear as an additional FAVO            -   This multiple FAVOs appearing on the display at one time                technique will enhance the Customer branding goals.            -   Often times this logo will be animated in rotating                fashion to enhance the sense of depth and to provide the                illusion that brand is also living within the computer.            -   This logo messages serve the dual purpose of branding                and of being a direct portal to the Customer web site.                -   Any form of EUI could be harnessed to launch the                    Customer web site.        -   Marketing messages            -   Customer offerings.            -   3^(rd) party offerings.    -   Targeted Messages        -   Custom tailored based on Patients health profile            -   The Patient will fill out a digital form listing medical                conditions, concerns, health/fitness goals etc.        -   Custom tailored by Patients computer activity            -   The DTD Player will monitor all EUI with between Patient                and the DTD            -   The DTD Player will monitor the Patients' web browsing                activity                -   This will be an opt in feature        -   The DSDMS will store this data by Patient ID and will            utilize the information to perform algorithms that will be            aimed to present more targeted messages to each individual            Patient.    -   At this point—or on any occasion—the Patient may choose to        perform a EUI directly with the FAVO DTD or the Patient Options        screen of the Player application. Each Patient can interact with        the DTD according to their unique needs and interests. There is        no set way to spend time with the DTD. The patient experience is        non-linear and totally customizable. [Note: the “Take your pill        reminder” message will be a non-optional feature in that this        core capability helps to directly enforce a Patients' dosage        requirement.]        -   To check on any contra-indications brought about by a new            medicine that another doctor had prescribed.        -   Access the FAVO based FAQ concerning the medication.        -   Go to relevant web site via FAVO.            -   Such as the Customer home page.        -   Blogging directly via the form that is launched from the            FAVO and/or the Player application.            -   The blogging feature will be accessible to both our                Customer and other Patients.                -   The Customer will have the ability to filter and                    screen these blog posts in an effort to limit                    negative feedback        -   Changing the doctor            -   The DTD will be comprised of several doctors that will                deliver the same content but;                -   Multiple genders                -   Different outfits                -   Different bedside manner                -   Nurse mode        -   Changing the audio visual playback modes of the doctor            -   Float on top of other applications (Y/N)            -   Float on top of desktop (Y/N)            -   FAVO icon mode (Y/N)            -   Enlarge and center on activation (Y/N)            -   Shrink and retreat on idle (Y/N)            -   Opacity level            -   3D (Y/N)                -   This novel mode requires of special filming                    techniques and presently requires special glasses .                    . . but it really strengthens the illusion that the                    doctor is alive as your health care companion.            -   Full screen background on activation (Y/N)                -   With this mode the DTD is now surrounded by a                    background image such as a room in a hospital or a                    lecture hall as soon as the Patient interacts with                    DTD        -   Access the healthy life style/positive affirmation FAVO mode            -   Here healing and generally uplifting messages will be                delivered        -   Send To Friend        -   Post to Social Net/Web Page

After any FAVO Message is Delivered and/or any EUI Performed the FAVOWill Communicate the Details to the DSDMS.

-   -   All of the Patients' DTD enabled devices are linked to the DSDMS        via the Patients' unique ID code.    -   This device independent tracking logic allows for a continuous        experience across all devices.    -   The next display [computer, set-top, net-linked appliance—such        as alarm clock, mobile phone, etc.] that the end user encounters        will be poised with the next daily message in the DTD content        queue.    -   If the Patient accesses the DTD via their cell phone earlier        during the day, then when they sit down to enjoy television via        their set top box powered living room display the DTD will be        primed and ready to send the next appropriate message    -   To the Patient it will seem as if his experience simply extends        transparently from one device to another.    -   This demonstrates that the DSDMS manages content across various        screen enabled devices.

Another Feature Will be Medication Prescription Renewal.

-   -   This takes advantage of the DTD's embedded e-commerce engine.        -   This service stores shipping and credit card info to make            prescription renewal as painless as possible for the            Patient.            -   The Patient also has the option of going to the Customer                medication distribution web site.            -   Or, placing an electronic order at the Patients local                pharmacy.    -   The Patient will also be able to examine the Customer catalog of        other suitable medical solutions.        -   In order to educate the Patient and to prepare the Patient            with the relevant questions to ask to their real world            health professional.    -   Avazap will generate commission based on these prescription        renewal orders.

The Client Will be Able to Add New Content to the DSDMS

-   -   First they must post the new content with their Avazap account        manager.    -   The account manager will then upload this to our content        delivery network.    -   The Customer content creation efforts will benefit from our        automated digital FAVO production pipeline.

At any Point the Client Will be Able to Access the Scope of the CampaignVia the Web-Based Dashboard Reporting Tool

-   -   The metrics will be tailored for each individual client.    -   But will most likely include:        -   Install base data.        -   Content impressions.        -   E-commerce data.

Avazap Will Receive Revenue in Several Different Ways:

-   -   Charge per individual installs.    -   Monthly subscription fees.    -   Content updates.    -   Report Generation    -   Prescription renewal commission.    -   Third party advertisement        -   CPM.        -   Click-through.        -   Action-based commissions.            List of FAVO Features.

Desktop/Operating system home page screen FAVO

-   -   Multiple FAVOs on screen display    -   Rotating FAVO based content    -   Display centering of FAVO    -   Shrink & corner when idle    -   FAVO based email    -   3-D FAVO    -   Holographic/Outside of device display FAVO    -   Streaming capability    -   Transferring FAVO    -   FAVO based Advertisement

Ad Campaign Monitoring System (ACMS):

-   -   EUI-based FAVO content modification: here we are talking only        about what an end user is doing with content sent from the ACMS.    -   DSDMS is analyzed across all of clients various FAVO ad        campaigns:    -   Allowing end users to receive campaigns from multiple clients.        For example:    -   Placement in the FAVO content queue of an end user can be bid        upon by advertising clients to achieve the desired frequency or        exact placement in the said queue.    -   FAVOs used to collect user information:    -   Information can be gathered via EUI    -   Indirectly via reading accessible data on client device/OS

Declining Cost Per Ad Impression System:

-   -   Hotspots

Hotspot EUI Events

-   -   Area surrounding FAVO as hotspot    -   Hotspots trigger scenes    -   FAVO based appearance of purchasable items    -   Portal

Through EUI with FAVO the 3rd Party/Clients Web Page is Displayed

-   -   UGC: User generated content FAVOs (example, self, loved ones,        animals, etc.)    -   FAVO Blogging    -   E-Commerce:        -   Commission generation        -   FAVO Catalog        -   Embedded FAVO purchase engine    -   3rd party web site    -   Website/Webpage/Web Ad unit FAVO . . . here we are referring to        an overlay FAVO as described above    -   FAVO makes request for the end user to allow the FAVO to become        a Desktop/Operating system home page screen FAVO    -   FAVO moves out side of application window.    -   FAVO appears as an overlay then remains visible after the        application that launched the FAVO is closed or minimized.    -   Automate the digital production pipeline to provide FAVO        production in real time.    -   FAVO Icon [Note: second category of inventions]    -   FAVO Image Backgrounds [Note: third category of inventions]    -   FAVO launches background images that frame the FAVO which can        apply to FAVO & FAVO Icons [Note: sub-inventions]

General Background

Contextual Background

Fruit Tree

-   -   What Avazap is offering can be clarified with a metaphor that        describes our solutions in relation to a fruit bearing tree:    -   Once an end user initially opts in to receive an Avazap ad        campaign it as if they are willingly planting the seed of a        fruit tree.    -   The soil of this seed is the OS of a display supporting digital        device.    -   This seed generates multiple FAVO content scenes.

These scenes can be viewed as individual branches a growing tree.

-   -   Once all the FAVO scenes for a particular campaign have been        downloaded this fruit tree has all of its' major branches.    -   Each and every one of these branches yields many green leaves,        and quite possibly delicious and valuable fruit.

The leaves represent content impressions and the opening of web pages.

The fruit takes the form of actual commerce.

-   -   The Client Module stores the messages and re-cycles through this        content queue after a scene has been played for first time:        -   As soon as the player enters the repeating impression mode            for a particular FAVO campaign, it then becomes similar the            trees many leafy and fruit bearing sub-branches.    -   As a FAVO campaign nears the end of its' life-cycle it can be        viewed as the Fall & Winter; where the tree lays dormant        awaiting the coming Spring    -   This coming new Spring is associated with our client's new FAVO        campaigns; for which the Player lays sleeping, waiting and ready        blossom once again into beautiful and bountiful fruit tree.        Audio

In one embodiment, the FAVO object interleaves audio and video,rendering it impossible for the two types of content to become out ofsync.

FAVO Campaign Monitoring

Through tracking, storing and analyzing EUI behavior the content ofsubsequent FAVO can be optimized for end user relevancy. For example: Ifan end user opts for a fashion retailer FAVO campaign and is onlyinterested in shoes from that retailer, than subsequent content fromthat same retailer can consist of primarily shoes.

DSDMS is analyzed across all of clients various FAVO ad campaigns. Forexample: The entire history of all created FAVO and indexing based onFAVO content. Content is tagged according to descriptive criteria usedto query DSDMS data base. End users can receive campaigns from multipleclients. For example: If an end user likes a wine of the month FAVO fromone winery, they will probably be open to a similar FAVO from adifferent winery client. Placement in the FAVO content queue of an enduser can be controlled. For example, imagine a FAVO campaign starringMiley Cyrus that is initially sponsored by Disney. After gaining a userbase of millions of eager fans Miley might decide to open up some of theslots in her FAVO content queue to additional sponsors. These sponsorswould then vie in some manner to gain a slot in the additional sponsorqueue.

E-Commerce

The purchase of real world items displayed as FAVO objects is enabled.The items can be a product FAVO or an item that a FAVO iswearing/using/gesturing towards. A FAVO purchase engine is provided forenabling direct purchase upon clicking, or third party click-through canbe supported. A FAVO Catalog can present multiple FAVO items forpurchase. The items can be bookmarked and cached for later retrieval.The catalog supports filtering of items and go to item via indexing. Thecatalog can be paused, and resumed from a pause and/or a bookmark.

An embedded FAVO purchase engine will allow EUI with FAVO to launch acommerce activity. The EUI can launch an order confirmation form, can be‘skinned’ to match a client's brand, and can include an ad unit.

The EUI can launch separate and possibly multiple FAVOs that represent apurchasable item on the primary FAVO. This will make it very clear tothe end user what is purchasable on the FAVO. This solution can work intandem with hot spots or stand alone. The stand alone solution addressesthe difficulty in mapping each frame of the FAVO. The items in the FAVOare not stationary . . . rather; they move all about through time andspace. With this technique it does not matter precisely where aparticular purchasable item is within the FAVO. Rather, the EUI makesall purchasable FAVO clearly evident.

One embodiment supports pop-up menu or other forms of selection listobjects or applications. Tags of the FAVO or hotspot on the FAVO becomeitem identification codes that are used for ordering.

A FAVO can originate from an application (e.g., email), and remain afterthat application is closed. Alternately, the FAVO could leave theapplication to wander around the screen and then return to theapplication. For example, it could move outside of a display/banner adand then return. The FAVO can use audio to gain attention, or gesturingat other graphics. Scenes with the FAVO can be used to gain usersattention and interest.

Client Module

In one embodiment the Client Module is software application that runs onthe Microsoft Windows or other operating system. Client Module consistsof an executable file which can be downloaded via the internet from theAVAZAP website, customer websites and customer marketing partner sitesand portals. Once installed, the Client Module will perform manyfunctions. Here's a list of example features:

Detect user system settings such as screen resolution, CPU and RAM andset defaults most appropriate to user capabilities.

Download updates and additional scenes.

Install easily with standard desktop, menu and taskbar icons whereavailable and desired.

Allow user to manage the properties and settings of how the FAVOs playand exist on users system. Users will be able to control the FAVOsettings such as:

-   -   Sound    -   volume,    -   startup functionality    -   Frequency    -   Size    -   scene selection    -   FAVO selection    -   Z-order control    -   update functionality and criteria    -   Ability to integrate FAVOs with clients social networking        portals such as MySpace, Face Book and others.    -   Set FAVO scenes to play on triggered events such as receipt of        email and other notifications.    -   Ability to integrate FAVOs with end users personal websites.    -   Ability to share FAVOs/FAVO information with contacts via email.

Report user impressions, settings and usage patterns to AVAZAP'S DSDMS.

Support embedded e-commerce.

It should be understood that embodiments of the present invention asdescribed above can be implemented in the form of control logic usingcomputer software in a modular or integrated manner. Based on thedisclosure and teachings provided herein, a person of ordinary skill inthe art will know and appreciate other ways and/or methods to implementthe present invention using hardware and a combination of hardware andsoftware.

Any of the software components or functions described in thisapplication, may be implemented as software code to be executed by aprocessor using any suitable computer language such as, for example,Java, C++ or Perl using, for example, conventional or object-orientedtechniques. The software code may be stored as a series of instructions,or commands on a computer readable medium, such as a random accessmemory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a magnetic medium such as ahard-drive or a floppy disk, or an optical medium such as a CD-ROM. Anysuch computer readable medium may reside on or within a singlecomputational apparatus, and may be present on or within differentcomputational apparatuses within a system or network.

The above description is illustrative and is not restrictive. Manyvariations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in theart upon review of the disclosure. The scope of the invention should,therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description,but instead should be determined with reference to the pending claimsalong with their full scope or equivalents.

One or more features from any embodiment may be combined with one ormore features of any other embodiment without departing from the scopeof the invention.

A recitation of “a”, “an” or “the” is intended to mean “one or more”unless specifically indicated to the contrary.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: a client module fordisplaying a frameless object on a user computing device, said framelessobject having a non-rectangular border matching the boundaries of theframeless object; wherein said frameless object persists at leastindependent of any particular web page on a website; a reporting toolfor tracking appearances of said frameless object; and said reportingtool reporting the tracked appearances of said frameless object; whereinsaid frameless object includes at least one hotspot where a user canclick to interact; wherein said frameless object further includes aplurality of hotspots, with each hotspot providing an interaction on adifferent subject.
 2. A system comprising: a client module fordisplaying a frameless object on a user computing device, said framelessobject having a non-rectangular border matching the boundaries of theframeless object; wherein said frameless object persists at leastindependent of any particular web page on a website; a reporting toolfor tracking appearances of said frameless object; and said reportingtool reporting the tracked appearances of said frameless object; furthercomprising server module configured to track the status of messagedelivered to said user through said interaction using an ID unique tosaid user; wherein said server module is further configured to sendtargeted messages based on said users health profile; and wherein saidserver module is further configured to track metrics of said targetedmessages.
 3. A system comprising: a client module for displaying aframeless object on a user computing device, said frameless objecthaving a non-rectangular border matching the boundaries of the framelessobject; wherein said frameless object persists at least independent ofany particular web page on a website; a reporting tool for trackingappearances of said frameless object; and said reporting tool reportingthe tracked appearances of said frameless object; wherein said system isconfigured to limit the display of ads on a website when the user isdetected to have the frameless object.
 4. A system comprising: a clientmodule for displaying a frameless video object on a user computingdevice, said frameless video object having a non-rectangular bordermatching the boundaries of the frameless object; said frameless objectappearing and persisting independent of a browser and otherapplications; said client module detecting user interaction with saidframeless video object; said client module providing informationassociated with said frameless video object in response to said userinteraction; a tracking module for monitoring user interaction with saidframeless video object; wherein said client module further providesadvertising to said user in conjunction with said user interactionwherein said frameless object further includes a plurality of hotspots,with each hotspot providing an interaction on a different subject; aserver module configured to track the status of messages delivered tosaid user through said interaction using an ID unique to said user;wherein said frameless object is selected by said user; and wherein saidframeless object is a character that has entertainment characteristicsindependent of said user interaction with said frameless object.
 5. Thesystem of claim 4 further comprising: said frameless object appearingindependent of a browser and other applications, and being customizedfor providing a reminder to a particular user.
 6. The system of claim 4wherein said frameless object is customized for a particular user toremind that user to take a drug.
 7. The system of claim 4 wherein anaspect of said frameless object is selected by said user.
 8. The systemof claim 7 wherein said aspect is a character that has entertainmentcharacteristics independent of said user interaction with said framelessobject.
 9. The system of claim 4 wherein client module is configured totrack said frameless object and said user interactions with saidframeless object across multiple devices.
 10. The system of claim 4further comprising a server module configured to track the status ofmessage delivered to said user through said interaction using an IDunique to said user.
 11. The system of claim 4 wherein said usercomputing device is a mobile device.
 12. The system of claim 4 furthercomprising an ad module configured to alter ad content based on bothuser browser activity and user selection of a desired frameless object.13. The system of claim 4 further comprising: said client moduleproviding for user control over aspects of the playing of said object,including at least one of deletion, frequency, order of play, playlists, position, opacity level, number, size and volume.
 14. The systemof claim 4 further comprising: said client module allowing said user toprovide user-generated content for said frameless object.